JP2002540567A - Ventilation system for battery - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Abstract: A ventilation system for a battery having a plurality of cells includes a battery cover, a plurality of condensation chambers, and a lid. The condensation chamber is formed in at least one portion of the top surface of the cover. Each condensing chamber comprises a floor and a housing for receiving ventilated gas from the cells of the battery. A sump extends downward from the floor of each condensing chamber. The sump has an opening and a floor disposed at an angle to the horizontal. The opening functions as a means for venting gas from inside the cell and as a means for returning electrolyte to the cell. The angle of the bed facilitates the return of condensate flowing into the sump. A lid is provided to cover each condensation chamber. A plurality of baffles extend from the inner surface of the lid into each condensation chamber.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a ventilation system for a storage battery. In particular, the invention relates to a ventilation system for a lead-acid battery that can be used for motor vehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Lead-acid batteries are known in the art. Lead-acid batteries are used for multiple applications including self-propelled vehicles such as cars, trucks, boats and airplanes as well as lightweight utility vehicles such as golf carts.

[0003] Lead-acid batteries typically include a battery case that houses the active components of the battery.
The active elements are stored in individual compartments, usually called "cells". A typical lead-acid battery has at least six cells, each cell producing a voltage of 2 volts. The cells are usually rectangular, with each cell comprising a plurality of alternating anode and cathode plates separated by a battery separator. The anode plate usually contains lead dioxide as an active material, and the cathode plate usually contains metallic lead having an extremely porous porous structure as an active material. The battery separator is formed of a sheet made of a porous and non-conductive material, and insulates the anode plate and the cathode plate from directly adjacent portions.

[0004] Lead-acid batteries are started by introducing an aqueous solution, known as an electrolyte, into the cells. The electrolytic solution is a concentrated solution composed of sulfuric acid and water, and has a predetermined specific gravity. The specific gravity of the electrolyte is chemically determined so as to satisfy the electrochemical requirements for the storage battery.

[0005] The introduction of the electrolyte into the cell causes a chemical reaction. The anode plate chemically reacts with the electrolyte to generate water and lead sulfate. The cathode plate chemically reacts with the electrolyte to generate lead sulfate. The chemical reaction at the anode and cathode plates continues until the electrolyte is diluted with water. A battery is said to have been "discharged" when no chemical reaction can take place.

[0006] A feature of the lead storage battery is that it is chemically reversible. The discharge process for discharging the storage battery is reversed by passing a current through the anode plate and the cathode plate in opposite directions to the discharge direction. When the current flows through the anode plate and the cathode plate, the lead sulphate is separated into lead and SO _4, water is separated into oxygen and hydrogen. SO ₄ combines with hydrogen to produce sulfuric acid. Oxygen combines with lead to form lead dioxide. This process is known in the art as "charging".

[0007] Charging a lead-acid battery produces a large amount of gas, mostly hydrogen and oxygen. As the charging process continues, the pressure in the battery case and / or cells increases. Due to the presence of gas in the cell and the increased pressure, the storage battery case can collapse and break if not properly ventilated. In addition, gases have the danger that external sparks can cause an explosion. Therefore, there is a need in the lead-acid battery manufacturing industry for a ventilation system that vents gas from the battery case and / or cells to the atmosphere.

[0008] It is also known in the art that vaporized electrolyte can be trapped by gas in the cell. Therefore, additional problems arise from venting the gas. Alternatively, when the gas carrying the vaporized electrolyte is ventilated, the amount of the electrolyte that can chemically react with the anode plate and the cathode plate decreases. Loss of electrolyte reduces the maximum useful life of the storage battery. Therefore, in addition to the need to vent the gas in the cell from the cell, there is a need to maintain and facilitate returning electrolyte to the cell.

To address the aforementioned needs, manufacturers in the art have utilized ventilation systems that ventilate gas through vents in baffled passageways and cell covers. Two types of ventilation systems are known in the art, vertical ventilation systems and horizontal ventilation systems. Typical vertical ventilation systems include vent plugs and fill reservoirs.
er well) and a baffle. The liquid spout generally has a cylindrical deep chamber with a floor that engages the filler reservoir. As the gas is ventilated vertically from the cell, the heavy electrolyte drops to the floor of the chamber. The floor of the chamber is formed so as to be inclined towards a central opening having a dual purpose of exhausting and ventilating, through which the gas rises vertically, Electrolyte collected on the floor is drained through this central opening and returns to the cell. After passing through a baffle preventing the electrolyte from reaching the outlet port, the collected gas is vented to the ambient atmosphere through the outlet port. US Patent No. 4
Nos. 186,247, 4,338,383, 4,562,126 and 4,636,446 disclose vertical ventilation systems.

[0010] Compared to a vertical ventilation system, a horizontal ventilation system typically has a plurality of elongated acquisition chambers and an opening having a dual purpose of evacuation and ventilation (the opening of the vertical ventilation system). And a baffle and at least one outlet port. A plurality of elongated capture chambers extend horizontally across at least a portion of the battery. An opening having a dual purpose of drainage and ventilation is arranged laterally from the outlet port. Thus, the electrolyte and gas entering the chamber must travel along the length of the chamber to reach the outlet port. The baffle controls the flow of gas and the floor of the chamber is usually sloped to facilitate electrolyte return to the cell through the opening. A horizontal ventilation system may also have a manifold system that allows gas to flow or mix between and within a plurality of elongated capture chambers. The use of a manifold system allows the amount of outlet ports required to vent the gas to be reduced, thus reducing costs. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,371,591 and 44,865.
Nos. 16,4891,270 and 5,424,146 disclose horizontal ventilation systems.

A horizontal ventilation system is considered to be an improvement over a vertical ventilation system.
Horizontal ventilation systems intentionally maximize the area through which gas can be ventilated. However, limitations exist. The shape of horizontal ventilation systems is often intricate and complicated. The complexity of the parts allows the gas to travel along a tortuous path before the gas exits through the outlet port. However, this type of horizontal ventilation system is also often difficult to assemble and expensive to manufacture. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,486,516 discloses a horizontal ventilation system having an electrolyte drain opening, an outlet port, a subchamber, and a sump. This ventilation system also includes partition means for isolating the reservoir from the sub-chamber. The sub-chamber has a tilted floor that slopes down toward the sump. The reservoir is further formed by an inclined floor located below the inclined floor and inclined toward the opening. The separating means has a number of complex and interrelated walls,
It forms a tortuous path that must be traversed before gas enters the outlet port. However, the configuration of the horizontal ventilation system disclosed in the aforementioned U.S. patent is expensive to manufacture due to the use of a large number of complex and interrelated components.

To be effective, a ventilation system for a lead-acid battery should maximize the space above the battery case to vent the gas in the cell from the cell. Further, the ventilation system should have additional features that facilitate efficient and rapid return of the electrolyte to the cell. Further, there is a continuing desire to form ventilation systems that are easy to manufacture and cost effective. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a ventilating capacity that facilitates venting gas in the cell from the cell, as well as for the ability to quickly return as much electrolyte as possible to the cell and to provide such a challenge. Ability is needed.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a ventilation system that maximizes the space in which gas can be vented from the cell. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a ventilation system which prevents the vaporized electrolyte trapped in the gas from flowing out. It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a ventilation system that is easy to assemble and manufacture and that efficiently vents gas and returns electrolyte to the cells of the storage battery. Other objects of the present invention will become clear from the following description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a ventilation system for a lead-acid battery (battery). The battery has a battery case, a cover, and a lid. The battery case has a longitudinal axis and an open top and a plurality of cells. Each cell contains the active material of the battery including the electrolyte. The cover is designed to be attached to the top of the case.

A plurality of condensation chambers are formed on the top surface of the cover. Each condensing chamber has a housing for collecting gas flowing out of the cells of the battery. The housing is formed by an open top, a pair of side walls located on opposite sides connected to each other at corresponding corners, a pair of end walls located on both sides, and a floor connected to the bottom end of these walls. . In a preferred embodiment, the floor of each condensing chamber is horizontal, forming a passage along the longitudinal axis of the condensing chamber.

A sump extends downward from each condensation chamber. Each reservoir is aligned with a first opening in the floor of each condensation chamber. The well also has a lower portion, a hole, and a floor. The floor of the reservoir hangs in the lower part and slopes substantially downward toward the bottom end of the hole. The reservoir floor is arranged at an angle to the horizontal.

A lid is provided to cover each condensation chamber. The lid has an inner surface formed by four walls connected to each other at corresponding corners. A plurality of partitions extend vertically from the inner surface of the lid between the inner walls. The partitions are equally spaced from each other to correspond to the corresponding width of the housing of each condensing chamber. The partition partitions the inner surface into a plurality of cells. The cell forms an upper portion of each condensation chamber and further defines the upper portion.

A plurality of exhaust ports extend from the inner surface of the lid. These exhaust ports are arranged to vent the gas flowing into the condensation chamber to the atmosphere. Each outlet is associated with at least one of the condensation chambers. The exhaust port has a cylindrical chamber, a transfer passage, and a port. The cylindrical chamber has a first opening that serves as an inlet for gas entering the condensation chamber. The cylindrical chamber also has a second opening connected to the entrance of the transfer passage. The outlet of the transfer passage is connected to a port located in one of the outer walls of the lid.

Finally, a plurality of baffles extend from the inner surface of the lid to the condensation chamber. Each baffle controls electrolyte flow and promotes electrolyte condensation. The baffles are aligned along a line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extend into the housing of each condensing chamber. In a preferred embodiment, at least one baffle corresponds to each condensing chamber.

Although the drawings presently show preferred modes for the purpose of illustrating the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated configurations and means.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be described below in connection with a preferred embodiment, but the invention is not limited to this embodiment. The following description is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of a fully assembled battery, indicated by reference numeral 10. The battery 10 includes a battery case 12 and a cover 1
4 and a lid 16. The ventilation system of the present invention is housed in battery 10 between cover 14 and lid 16.

The case 12 is rectangular in shape and has an open top and four upright walls 18.
And the walls 18-24 are attached to each other at corresponding corners to form a box. The case 12 has a longitudinal axis parallel to the walls 18 and 20 between the walls. Further, the walls 18-24 form a housing for containing the active elements of the battery 10 containing the electrolyte. Multiple cells (
(Not shown) is provided. Each cell is arranged along and along the longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the cells share at least one common wall. Each cell produces a potential of 2 volts. Case 12 and battery 10 described herein
Are manufactured, for example, by injection molding a thermoplastic material.
Also, other processes and techniques known in the art for manufacturing components of the battery 10 may be used. However, the process of manufacturing the components of the battery 10 as described herein does not form an important part of the present invention and need not be described further.

A cover 14 is attached to the top of the case 12 and closes a cell in the housing. As shown in FIG. 1, the cover 14 has a rectangular shape,
It has a length and width approximately equal to the length and width defined by ~ 24. The cover 14 also has a top surface 26 and four walls 28-34, which are attached to each other at their corresponding corners. The walls 28-34 surround and support the outer periphery of the cover 14 when attached to each other, wherein each wall extends downwardly from the top surface 26 and engages the upper end of one of the walls 18-24. Combine. To permanently enclose the active elements of battery 10, cover 14 may be heat sealed to case 12 using techniques generally known in the art.

Near the corner of the top surface 26, a pair of battery terminals is provided. Walls 28, 32
A positive electrode terminal 36 is arranged near the corner of. Along the side of the top surface 26, just opposite the location of the positive terminal 36, a negative terminal 38 is located near the corner of the walls 28, 34. Further, a control box 40 is arranged on the top surface 26. As shown, the control box 40 includes a lid 41 and four walls 42 to 48, which are connected to each other at corresponding corners to form a rectangular shape. The control box 40 is located between the positive terminal 36 and the negative terminal 38 and near the wall 28. Further, the control box 40 functions as a container for an electric control device for controlling the distribution of the voltage generated in the cells of the battery 10. The presence or absence of the control box 40 is optional, and does not constitute an important part of the present invention.

A support base 50 is provided on the top surface 26, and the support base 50
Has a side edge very close to the wall 30. The rear end of the support base 50 is located adjacent to the wall 44 of the control box 40. The support base 50 is provided with upright walls 52 to 58.
And a rectangular shape. The support base 50 also has an interior space (not shown) generally defined by the walls 52-58. Further defined in terms of their length, the walls 56, 58 are each located slightly inside the walls 32, 34 of the top surface 26. In addition, the support base 50 includes walls 56 and 58.
It has a flange 70 extending laterally between them. Flange 70 is for battery 10
It functions to guide the relative position of the lid 16 when is assembled.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown an exploded view of the lid 16 and cover 14 shown in FIG. As shown, on a portion of the top surface 26 of the cover 14, a plurality of condensation chambers 60 are formed over the cells of the battery 10 in alignment with the cells. The condensation chamber 60 extends on the top surface 26 such that its outer end is slightly inside the walls 32 and 34 of the cover 14. The condensation chamber 60 is provided in the interior space of the support base 50 such that the walls 52 to 58 of the support base 50 function to surround the periphery of the condensation chamber 60 and additionally support it.

Each condensing chamber 60 is such that each condensing chamber 60 shares at least one common wall.
The batteries 10 are arranged side by side along a line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Each condensing chamber 60 is comprised of a pair of opposing side walls 64, 66 and opposing end walls 68, 70, which are joined at each end to form a continuous elongated rectangular housing 62. The housing 62 functions as a compartment for containing gas released from the cell. The housing 62 has an open top and a floor 72 extending from the bottom of the walls 64-70. The gas generated in each cell flows upward and flows into one or more condensation chambers 60. Although another configuration may be selected, the one-to-one relationship between the cell and the condensation chamber 60 is representative of the preferred embodiment.

As further shown in FIG. 2, a lid 16 is formed to permanently surround and seal each condensation chamber 60. Lid 16 has an outer surface 74 and an inner surface 76. Outer surface 7
The four rectangular shapes are formed by walls 78-84 surrounding the four outer edges of this outer surface. To place lid 16 on condensation chamber 60, walls 78-84 are aligned to rest on top of walls 52-58 of support base 50.

The lid 16 has a rectangular inner surface 76 having a length and width equal to the length and width of the condensation chamber 60. The inner surface 76 is formed on the inner walls 86 to slightly inside the outer walls 78 to 84.
As formed by 92, a small space remains between these walls. When the lid 16 is assembled, the inner walls 86-92 may be heat sealed to the top walls 64a-70a of the collection of condensation chambers 60 to permanently surround each of the individual condensation chambers 60 in the support base 50. .

A plurality of partitions 94 extend from inner surface 76 toward condensation chamber 60, which is generally within inner walls 86-92. The partition wall 94 is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the battery 10. Each partition 9
4 are equally spaced from each other corresponding to the spacing between the side walls 64 and 66 of the condensation chamber 60. The spacing between each partition 94 functions to divide the inner surface 76 into a plurality of cells 96. Therefore, when the lid 16 and the cover 14 are assembled, each cell 96 functions as the top of each condensation chamber 60, and further configures each condensation chamber 60.

An exhaust opening or assembly 98 is provided in the lid 16 and functions as a means for venting the gas collected in the condensation chamber 60 to the surroundings. As shown in FIG. 2, the exhaust openings 98 are formed at both ends of the lid 16 that are basically along a common axis but are separated from each other. The exhaust opening 98 extends downward from the inner surface 76 and has a depth substantially equal to the depth of the partition wall 94. Each exhaust opening 98 has a port 100
, A moving passage 102, and a cylindrical chamber 104. The cylindrical chamber 104 is disposed in the middle of two adjacent cells 96 and is basically divided in half by a partition wall 94. A porous material 106 may be arranged in the cylindrical chamber 104 to extinguish the external flame and prevent the external flame from igniting the gas in the condensation chamber 60. As shown, the cylindrical chamber 104 has an opening (not shown) connected to the entrance of the moving passage 102. The outlet of the moving passage 102 is connected to the port 100. The port 100 is provided on the walls 82 and 84 of the lid 16 and functions as an opening for discharging gas to the atmosphere. In the exemplary embodiment, side walls 64 of condensation chamber 60
Alternatively, a recess 107 is formed in one of the openings 66, and the recess 107 forms an opening below the cylindrical chamber 104. As a result, the gas collected in the condensation chamber 60 can rise and flow into the exhaust opening 98.

In the present invention, other means and configurations for venting gas to the surroundings may be used. For example, additional vent openings 98 may be used and located on the inner surface of lid 16.

A rectangular opening or recess 124 is provided in each partition 94 adjacent to the wall 88. The opening 124 rises toward the inner surface 76 and extends laterally along a portion of the length of the partition 94. As shown in FIG. 2, the openings 124 are arranged along a common axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the case 12. The openings 124 provide a means for allowing gas collected in the condensation chambers 60 to flow between each other before entering the exhaust opening 98. In the preferred embodiment, no openings 124 are formed in the central bulkhead 97. In this way, the condensing chamber 60 will be divided into two separate groups, each group leading to only one exhaust opening 98. As a result, gas flowing into the condensing chamber 60 generally flows outward from the central wall 97 toward each exhaust opening 98.

A plurality of baffles (adjustment walls) 102 extend downward from the inner surface 76 to the condensation chamber 60. Baffles 102 are located within each cell 96 of lid 16 and are vertically aligned with partition 94. Each baffle 102 is rectangular in shape and has a flat surface located in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis. The baffle 102 controls the gas flow in the condensation chamber 60 to promote the condensation of the vaporized electrolyte. Since the length of each baffle 102 is less than the width of the condensation chamber 60, each baffle 102 fits well within the housing 62 when the lid 16 is assembled. Further, since each baffle 102 is of a suitable depth, the bottom end of each baffle does not contact the floor 72 of the condensation chamber 60.

The baffle 102 is arranged to prevent the electrolyte from reaching the exhaust opening 98. As shown in FIG. 2, at least one baffle 102 is provided in each cell 96 of the lid 16. The baffles 102 are arranged in two parallel rows,
Each baffle 102 is properly spaced from one another to divide the cell 96 into separate compartments. Other arrangements and configurations of the baffle 102 may be selected to be consistent with the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 3, a cross-sectional view of one of the outer condensation chambers 60 with the lid 16 assembled is shown. As shown, the walls 86 and 88 of the lid 16 are
Secured properly on top of 8a and 70a. Similarly, the partition 94 is connected to the condensation chamber 60.
Fixed on the top of one of the common side walls 64 or 66 to complete the enclosure. When assembled, outer walls 78 and 80 rest on walls 52 and 54 of support base 50, and exhaust assembly 98 is housed in recess 107. A baffle 102 is located next to the exhaust opening 98 and extends to a position above the floor 72. The floor 72 is disposed on a plane parallel to the top surface 26 of the cover 14. In addition, floor 72
Is defined by a first opening 104 located on one of the end walls of the condensation chamber 60.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, a liquid reservoir (
Sump) 108 is extended. Reservoir 108 has opening 1 aligned with first opening 104.
09. Each reservoir 108 is substantially cylindrical and has a lower portion 110 and an opening 1.
12 and a floor 114. Opening 112 is located at the bottom end of lower portion 110. Opening 112 is provided to function as a means for venting gas from the cell to condensation chamber 60 and as a means for promoting reflux of the electrolyte to the cell. The floor 114 of the reservoir 108 extends from the bottom end of the lower portion 110 so as to slope downward toward the bottom of the opening 112. As shown, the floor 114 is positioned at an angle to the horizontal to promote reflux of the condensate into the cell. In a preferred embodiment, the floor 114 has an angle of inclination from 0 ° to 90 ° with respect to the horizontal.

As further shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a second opening 10 in the floor 72 of each condensation chamber 60 is provided.
The battery acid-filled tube 116 for battery is disposed in 5. The tube 116 has a cylindrical shape and is arranged at the end of the floor 72 of the condensation chamber 60 on the opposite side of the position of the liquid reservoir 108. Tube 116 is generally disposed along a straight line parallel to the longitudinal axis.
The internal structure of the tube 116 is clearly shown in FIG. As shown, the tubes 116 extend above and below the floor 72, thereby opening the bottom end of the tubes 16 to each cell of the battery 10. The top end of the tube 116 has an opening located along the same central axis as the central axis of the opening at the bottom end. An overhang 117 having a diameter greater than the diameter of the top or bottom end opening extends around the periphery of the tube 116. When the battery 10 is assembled, the electrolyte is added to each cell of the battery 10 via each tube 116.

Corresponding to each tube 116, plugs 120 of a plurality of acidic substance-filled tubes for a battery extend below the inner surface 76 of the lid 16. The stopper 120 is disposed in a plurality of holes (not shown) of the lid 16, and each hole is formed in the cylindrical wall 1 protruding downward from the inner surface of the lid 16.
Surrounded by 25. The diameter of the cylindrical wall 125 is the protruding portion 117 of the tube 116.
Equal to the diameter of

Each plug 120 is pushed into a corresponding hole such that top surface 122 is flush with outer surface 74 of lid 16 (see FIG. 1). A tubular structure 123 projects downwardly from a top surface 122 of a stopper 120 having a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the hole in the lid 16. A recess is provided around the tubular structure 123 that matches the diameter of the hole to lock the plug 120 in place. When the plug 120 is pushed into the hole, the tubular structure 12
The lower end of 3 is located in cylindrical wall 125 and is located slightly above the opening at the top end of tube 116.

The stopper 120 functions to prevent gas or electrolyte from leaking after the battery 10 is fully assembled. Thus, as gas exits the cell and rises vertically through tube 116, plug 120 reverses the electrolyte that may be trapped by the gas. Thus, the tube 116 and the stopper 120 provide an additional means for returning electrolyte to the cells of the battery 10.

FIG. 4 shows a sectional view of a group of condensation chambers 60. Condenser chambers 60 are shown side by side. As mentioned above, in the preferred embodiment, the condensing chambers 60 are located directly above the cells of the battery 10 and each condensing chamber 60 communicates with one cell of the battery 10.

As further shown in FIG. 4, the floor 72 of each condensation chamber 60 further includes
Is defined by a groove 130 extending approximately the same length as The floor 72 and the groove 130 form a substantially V-shaped cross section, and the open end of the V-shape faces upward, and the tip of the V-shape lies on a plane parallel to a horizontal plane. Groove 130 directs the flow of condensate through first opening 104 and into reservoir 108.

FIG. 4 further illustrates the flow of gas to the discharge opening 98. The gas collected in the condensation chamber 60 rises to the bottom end of the cylindrical chamber 104. The gas enters the porous element 106, flows through the transfer passage 102, and then flows out through the port 100 to the surroundings. This process is repeated while the battery 10 continues to generate gas. At the same time, vaporized electrolyte condenses on the walls and surfaces of the housing 62 of the condensing chamber 60 as the venting process continues. The condensate then collects on the floor 72 and flows along the passage 130 before flowing into the reservoir 108. After flowing into the reservoir 108, the condensate eventually falls onto the floor 114 of the reservoir 108 and flows out of the cell through the opening 112.

FIG. 5 shows an enlarged view of a part of the lid 16 shown in FIG. In the figure, the central partition 97
, The flow of gas from the nozzle to the exhaust opening 98 is shown. FIG. 5 is useful to show the relative protruding configuration of the transfer passage 102 connected to the port 100 through the inner wall 90 and the outer wall 82 of the lid 16.

FIG. 6 shows one of the internal condensation chambers 60. A pair of baffles 102 extend into the condensation chamber 60. As described above, each baffle 102 controls the flow of gas and promotes the condensation of the vaporized electrolyte. Baffle 102 is connected to walls 86 and 8 of condensation chamber 60.
8 are arranged. As shown, the pair of baffles 102 divide the housing 62 into three compartments. FIG. 6 further shows a relative position of the opening 124 in the partition wall 94.

FIGS. 2 to 5 show a preferred embodiment of the ventilation system for the battery 10. A plurality of ducts 132 are provided between the cover 14 and the lid 16. The duct 132 is constituted by a pair of grooves for forming a means or a passage for allowing gas to flow from the cell to flow into the condensation chamber 60. The first groove 134 has a wall 135 located close to one of the end walls of the condensation chamber 60. The first groove 134 has an opening at each end, where the bottom end is open to the cells of the battery 10. A second groove 136 is provided in the lid 16 spaced from the first groove 134. The second groove 136 has an opening at its bottom end that aligns with the opening at the top end of the first groove 134. Further, the second passage 136 is defined by a wall 138 inside the inner wall 86 and spaced from the inner wall 86 to form a space for receiving gas ventilated from the cell. A recess 140 is provided in the wall 138, and the gas rising from the cell and passing through the first groove 134 flows into the condensation chamber 60 by the recess 140 (see FIG. 4). The above-described duct 132 is optional, and other means for venting gas into the condensation chamber 60 may be used.

The new ventilation system described above offers significant advantages not included in the prior art. The condensation chamber 60 provides a large space for ventilating while controlling the gas generated in the cells of the battery 10. In the present invention, the number, height, and spacing between each of the condensing chambers 60 can vary depending on the particular configuration required for the battery. Thus, the present invention provides flexibility with respect to the location and location of the condensation chamber 60 formed on the top surface 26. In another embodiment, the condensing chamber 60 is located below the top surface 26 so that the overall height of the battery 10 can be reduced.

Some of the improvements of the present invention over other ventilation systems relate to the shape of the floor 72 and the location of the reservoir 108. It is still desirable to return the electrolyte to the cells of the battery. Groove 130 provides a convenient passage for condensate to flow directly into sump 108. Similarly, the angled floor 114 of the reservoir 108 further facilitates return of the electrolyte to the cell.

The present invention described above satisfies the requirements for maximally venting gas from inside the cells of the battery 10. Furthermore, the present invention fulfills the requirements for a simple, low cost and efficient ventilation system for lead-acid batteries. The present invention has fewer parts than the ventilation system described above. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics, and thus reference is made not to the above detailed description, but to the appended claims, which set forth the scope of the invention. Should be.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery provided with a ventilation system of the present invention having a cover and a lid.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cover and a lid of the battery shown in FIG. 1 having a plurality of condensation chambers.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the condensation chamber along line 3-3 in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the condensation chamber taken along line 4-4 of FIG.

5 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of the lid shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the condensation chamber taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 1;

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuation of front page (81) Designated country EP (AT, BE, CH, CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, IT, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE ), OA (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP (GH, GM, KE, LS, MW, SD, SL, SZ, UG, ZW), EA (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM), AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY , CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ, DE, DK, EE, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IS, JP , KE, KG, KP, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, MD, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL, PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, UA, UG, US, UZ, VN, YU, ZA, ZW

Claims (18)

[Claims] 1. A ventilation system for a battery, comprising: a battery case; a longitudinal axis; an open top; and a plurality of cells within said battery case for receiving an active element of the battery containing electrolyte. A cover having a top surface; and a plurality of condensation chambers formed on the top surface of the cover, wherein each of the condensation chambers has a housing for collecting gas ventilated from the cell, and the housing has an opening. , A condensing chamber constituted by a pair of opposing side walls and a pair of opposing end walls connected to each other, and a floor, and a liquid reservoir extending vertically from each condensing chamber. A reservoir, aligned with the first opening in the floor of the condensing chamber and having a lower portion and an opening, a lid covering each condensing chamber, the lid being an inner surface, a pair of opposing side walls, and a pair of On the opposite end wall A plurality of exhaust openings extending from the inner surface of the lid, each exhaust opening ventilating gas generated in the cell and flowing into the condensation chamber to the surroundings. An exhaust opening, connected to at least one condensation chamber, and a plurality of baffles extending into the respective condensation chambers from the inner surface of the lid, each baffle controlling the flow of the electrolyte and condensing the electrolyte. A ventilation system comprising a baffle to facilitate the ventilation. 2. The ventilation system according to claim 1, wherein said lid further comprises a plurality of partitions extending vertically from said inner surface, each partition forming a plurality of cells, each cell leading to at least one condensation chamber. . 3. The ventilation system according to claim 2, further comprising an acidic material filling tube for a battery that extends vertically above the second opening in the floor of each condensing chamber. 4. The battery further comprising a plurality of battery acid substance filling tube plugs removably disposed within the lid, each plug being directed to the inner surface to close at least one of the battery acid substance filling tubes. The ventilation system of claim 3 that extends. 5. The ventilation system according to claim 2, wherein each partition has an opening for allowing gas to flow between the condensation chambers. 6. The condensing chamber floor defines a groove along a longitudinal axis of the condensing chamber, the groove communicating with the first opening to direct a flow of condensate to the sump.
The ventilation system as described in. 7. The ventilation system according to claim 6, wherein the floor of each condensing chamber has a substantially V-shaped cross section, with the open end of the V pointing upwards. 8. The ventilation system according to claim 1, wherein the floor of each condensing chamber is horizontal. 9. The ventilation system of claim 1, wherein each reservoir further comprises a floor extending from a lower portion thereof, wherein the reservoir floor is disposed on a plane at an angle to a horizontal plane. 10. Each exhaust opening has a cylindrical chamber, a moving passage having two ends,
A port and a porous element, wherein the moving passage is connected at both ends to the port and the cylindrical chamber, and the porous element is arranged in the cylindrical chamber so as to extinguish an external flame entering from the moving path. The ventilation system according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation system is provided. 11. A ventilation system for a battery, comprising: a battery case, a longitudinal axis, an open top, and a plurality of cells in the battery case for receiving an active element of the battery including an electrolyte. A cover having a top surface, a group of condensing chambers formed on the top surface of the cover, wherein each condensing chamber has an open top and a space for receiving gas ventilated from cells of the battery. A group of condensing chambers, wherein the space is constituted by a continuous wall and a floor, and the floor forms at least one groove; and a liquid reservoir extending vertically from each of the condensing chambers. A sump having a bottom portion aligned with the first opening of the condensation chamber floor and having a lower portion, the opening, and the floor disposed at an angle to a horizontal plane; and a lid covering the open top of each condensation chamber. And the lid is A surface and a peripheral portion constituted by at least one wall, and a plurality of partitions extending from the inner surface, the plurality of partitions form a plurality of cells, a lid, and from each cell of the lid to each condensation chamber. A ventilation system comprising: a plurality of baffles extending; and means for communicating with a condensation chamber for releasing gas generated in the cell and flowing into the condensation chamber to the surroundings. 12. The ventilation system according to claim 11, further comprising ventilation means for ventilating gas in the cells of the battery into each of the condensation chambers. 13. The ventilation means further comprises a plurality of ducts, each duct having a first groove and a second groove, the first groove communicating with an opening to a cell of the battery, 13. The ventilation system according to claim 12, wherein the second groove communicates with the first groove and an opening to each condensation chamber. 14. The ventilation system according to claim 11, wherein each partition has an opening for allowing gas to flow within the group of condensation chambers. 15. The ventilation system according to claim 11, wherein the cells of the lid form a top of each condensation chamber, and each cell communicates with at least one of the condensation chambers. 16. The case, comprising a case, a longitudinal axis, an open top, and a cover fixed to the case, wherein the cover has a top surface and is separated from and fixed to a positive electrode and a negative electrode. And the cover form a compartment, wherein the compartment is partitioned into a plurality of cells for containing the active elements of the battery containing electrolyte, wherein the battery comprises a plurality of condensation chambers disposed on a top surface of the cover. Wherein each condensing chamber has an open top and a space for receiving gas ventilated from the cells of the battery, the space being formed by at least one wall and a horizontal floor; A condensing chamber defining a groove, and a sump extending vertically from each condensing chamber, wherein each sump is aligned with a first opening in the floor of the condensing chamber and is positioned relative to a lower portion, the opening, and a horizontal plane. With a floor that is at an angle A lid for covering an open top of each condensation chamber, the lid having an inner surface and a peripheral part constituted by at least one wall; and a lid generated in the cell and forming the condensation chamber. A plurality of exhaust assemblies communicating with the condensing chamber so as to ventilate the gas flowing to the surroundings, and a plurality of baffles extending from the inner surface of the lid to the respective condensing chambers, wherein the baffles convert the space of each condensing chamber into a small chamber. A battery comprising: a baffle, wherein each baffle controls the flow of electrolyte and promotes condensation of the electrolyte. 17. An assembly for venting gas from within a cell of an automotive battery, wherein the battery houses an active element of the battery including an electrolyte comprising a plurality of cells, and a case of the battery. A cover secured to the cell, the cover having four sides and a top surface, the cover supporting a plurality of condensation chambers for collecting ventilated gas from the cell, each condensation chamber having A lid for surrounding the housing, the lid having a plurality of cells, each cell leading to at least one of the condensing chambers, each condensing chamber having a housing having at least one wall; and A floor coupled to the wall to form a space for receiving gas, the floor defining a groove, the groove having a longitudinal axis; and a first floor of the condensation chamber floor. A liquid reservoir extending vertically from the opening of A battery comprising: a reservoir, wherein the reservoir has a lower portion, an opening, and a floor connected to the lower portion, wherein the floor is disposed at an angle with respect to a horizontal plane. 18. A method for ventilating gas generated in a plurality of cells of a battery and returning electrolyte to the cells, comprising: a battery case; a cover fixed to the case and having an outer surface; A method comprising: a lid, a plurality of condensation chambers disposed between the cover and the lid, and a reservoir extending from each condensation chamber to the cell, wherein each reservoir has an opening. Venting the generated gas into the condensing chamber; condensing the electrolytic solution captured by the gas collected in each condensing chamber; and condensing the electrolytic solution along the groove of each floor of the condensing chamber. Directing the flow to the reservoirs, discharging the electrolyte accumulated in each reservoir into the cells of the battery, and flowing gas collected in the condensation chamber between them; and Through one exhaust assembly Releasing the gas collected in the condensation chamber to the surroundings.